What Is The Difference Between Slewing Ring and Slewing Drive Gears?

There are different types of slewing rings and slewing drive gear. We’ll discuss the slewing ring, slewing drive gear, low heat development, and duty cycles. Which type is right for your application? A slewing ring & drive manufacturer supplies slewing rings in various packaging conditions, from dry (75% humidity) to cover. They are typically stored for 12 months.

slewing ring

A slewing drive is a motorized device that generates torque by rotating a slewing ring with external teeth. The motor and slewing ring are constructed to mesh and provide high torque at a low speed. Slewing drives are often used in industrial applications such as cranes, positioners, and aerial lifts. The slewing ring is one of the most important components of the KMI hourglass worm technology. Spur gear drives are also popular options, as they can handle high rotational torques and low heat development. These units can be geared or directly driven and fitted with a rotary encoder.

slewing drive gear

Slewing drive mechanics operate on the same principle as worm gears, and they combine a slewing ring with external teeth with a complementing worm gear. All of these components are assembled within an aluminum or cast-iron housing. The slewing drive is a unique type of mechanical coupling that enables two perpendicular planes of motion, resulting in high output rotational torque. The worm gear translates this rotational motion onto the external slewing teeth, creating a rotation around the perpendicular axis of motion.

Slewing drives come in a wide range of capacities and sizes. Some feature two worm threads to drive the ring gear, making it more robust and reliable. Other designs, such as an hourglass design, offer higher performance than standard slewing ring gears. Aluminum gears, for example, are ideal for intermittent movements. And they also last longer.

Low heat development

The mounting structure of the slewing ring bearing is a critical factor for achieving low heat development and ensuring proper bearing performance. A proper mounting structure helps evenly distribute the bearing load and stress. Improper mounting may also damage gears, seals, and bolts. It is why proper mounting should be considered early in the design process. 

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Suitable for high duty cycles

Machines with periodic or high duty cycles can benefit from robust brake motors. They are perfect for machines that change their load demands frequently, such as industrial saws, elevators, punch presses, and compactors. These machines require a motor that can handle the duty cycle and provide second to none feedback. KEB has a wide selection of brake motors to meet the specific needs of the machine builders.

Suitable for high duty cycles can benefit many applications, including construction sites and manufacturing facilities. High duty cycles are important for industrial processes, such as forklift operations. Air compressors should have a duty cycle of at least 75%. In other words, a 75-percent duty cycle runs for three-fourths of a cycle’s duration. A fifty-percent duty cycle would provide 150 PSI and 10 CFM for half of the cycle time. When considering duty cycles, connect with a dealer to ensure you get the right model for your needs.